Novatel Car Stereo System OM 20000149 User Manual

AG-STAR  
User Manual  
OM-20000149  
Rev2  
December 2013  
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Table of Contents  
AG-STAR User Manual Rev 2  
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Table of Contents  
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Figures  
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Tables  
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Notice  
The following notices apply to the AG-STAR.  
Changes or modifications to this equipment not expressly approved by NovAtel Inc. could result  
in violation of FCC, Industry Canada and CE Marking rules and void the user’s authority to  
operate this equipment.  
FCC Notices  
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1)  
this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received,  
including interference that may cause undesired operation.  
AG-STAR has been tested and found to comply with the emission limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant  
to part 15 of the FCC Rules. The Class B limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against  
harmful interference in a residential installation.  
This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in  
accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is  
no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful  
interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on,  
the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:  
Re-orient or relocate the AG-STAR  
Increase the separation between the equipment and the AG-STAR  
Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the AG-STAR is  
connected  
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help  
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could  
void the user's authority to operate the equipment.  
In order to maintain compliance as a Class “B” digital device, shielded cables should be used  
for the RS-232 serial data ports (Belden 1036A or equivalent) and twisted pair cable should be  
used for the CAN port (shielded twisted pair will improve CAN performance in electrically harsh  
environments). I/O signals should be referred to signal ground (connector pin 5) and not power  
ground (connector pin 9). If I/O signals route to different areas of the vehicle, dedicated signal  
grounds for I/O should be spliced into a common connection to connector pin 5 at a point close  
to the AG-STAR.  
Industry Canada  
AG-STAR Class B digital apparatuses comply with Canadian ICES-003.  
AG-STAR appareils numérique de la classe B sont conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.  
This device complies with Industry Canada licence-exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to the  
following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this device must accept any  
interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.  
Le présent appareil est conforme aux CNR d'Industrie Canada applicables aux appareils radio exempts de  
licence. L'exploitation est autorisée aux deux conditions suivantes : (1) l'appareil ne doit pas produire de  
brouillage, et (2) l'utilisateur de l'appareil doit accepter tout brouillage radioélectrique subi, même si le  
brouillage est susceptible d'en compromettre le fonctionnement.  
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Notice  
CE  
The enclosures carry the CE mark.  
"Hereby, NovAtel Inc. declares that this AG-STAR is in compliance with the essential requirements and other  
relevant provisions of the R&TTE Directive 1999/5/EC, EMC Directive 2004/108/EC and the RoHS Recast  
Directive 2011/65/EU."  
WEEE  
If you purchased your AG-STAR in Europe, please return it to your dealer or supplier at the end of its life. The  
objectives of the European Community's environment policy are, in particular, to preserve, protect and  
improve the quality of the environment, protect human health and utilise natural resources prudently and  
rationally. Sustainable development advocates the reduction of wasteful consumption of natural resources  
and the prevention of pollution. Waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) is a regulated area.  
Where the generation of waste cannot be avoided, it should be reused or recovered for its material or energy.  
1
WEEE products may be recognized by their wheeled bin label (  
).  
REACH  
NovAtel strives to comply with the EU Directive EC 1907/2006 on chemicals and their safe use as per the  
Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemical substances (REACH) for its products,  
including the AG-STAR product. Since REACH SVHC lists are updated occasionally, please contact NovAtel  
Customer Support if you require further information.  
Cables may contain DEHP (CAS Number 117-81-7) in concentrations above 0.1% w/w.  
1. Visit the NovAtel Web site at www.novatel.com/products/weee-and-rohs/ for more information on WEEE.  
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Customer Support  
NovAtel Knowledge Base  
If you have a technical issue, browse to the NovAtel Web site at www.novatel.com then select Support |  
Helpdesk and Solutions | Knowledge and Forums. Through this page, you can search for information about  
®
SMART antennas and other technologies, information about NovAtel hardware and software, and  
installation and operation issues.  
Before Contacting Customer Support  
Before contacting NovAtel Customer Support about a software problem perform the following steps:  
1. Issue the following logging commands to collect data to a file on your computer for 15 minutes:  
LOG VERSIONA ONCE  
LOG RXSTATUSA ONCE  
LOG RXCONFIGA ONCE  
LOG RAWEPHEMA ONNEW  
LOG BESTPOSA ONTIME 1  
LOG RANGEA ONTIME 1  
1
LOG GLORAWEPHEMB ONCHANGED  
2. Send the file containing the logs to NovAtel Customer Support, using either the NovAtel FTP site at ftp://  
3. You can also issue a FRESET command to the receiver to clear any unknown settings.  
The FRESET command will erase all user settings. You should know your configuration and be  
able to reconfigure the receiver before you send the FRESET command.  
If you are having a hardware problem, send a list of the troubleshooting steps taken and results.  
Contact Information  
Use one of the following methods to contact NovAtel Customer Support:  
Call the NovAtel Hotline at 1-800-NOVATEL (U.S. & Canada)  
or +1-403-295-4500 (international)  
Fax: +1-403-295-4501  
Write: NovAtel Inc.  
Customer Support Department  
1120 - 68 Avenue NE  
Calgary, AB  
Canada, T2E 8S5  
1. For GLONASS channel configuration.  
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Chapter 1  
Introduction  
The AG-STAR is a high-performance GNSS receiver and antenna, capable of receiving and tracking different  
combinations of GPS L1 and GLONASS L1 code and carrier signals on a maximum of 14 channels. SBAS  
(Satellite Based Augmentation Systems) support, which includes WAAS, EGNOS, and MSAS, is standard.  
Refer to An Introduction to GNSS, available from our web site at www.novatel.com/an-introduction-to-gnss/  
for an overview of each of the above signal types. The AG-STAR rear panel also features light emitting  
diodes (LEDs) for status indication.  
Once properly powered, the AG-STAR begins operating as a fully functional GNSS system. Figure 1,  
AG-STAR Receiver shows the AG-STAR without connecting cables.  
Figure 1: AG-STAR Receiver  
1.1 Models and Features  
The main features of the AG-STAR are:  
a high performance GPS+GLONASS L1 receiver  
a high performance GPS+GLONASS L1 antenna  
emulated radar output  
a CAN port  
two (2) RS-232 COM ports or  
®
one (1) RS-232 COM port and Bluetooth  
three (3) LED status indicators  
a water and dust tight enclosure  
®
Bluetooth wireless technology (optional)  
The AG-STAR is available in several different firmware models whose configurations may include other  
additional features. Some possible configurations can be seen in Table 1, AG-STAR Models.  
Table 1: AG-STAR Models  
Model Name  
NovAtel Part #  
Firmware Features  
AG-STAR  
AG-STAR with Bluetooth  
01019131  
01019129  
GPS L1, GLONASS L1, SBAS and emulated radar output  
GPS L1, GLONASS L1, SBAS, emulated radar output and Bluetooth  
Refer also to the OEMStar Firmware Reference Manual (OM-20000127) for information on receiver  
communications and operation.  
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Introduction  
Chapter 1  
1.2 Scope  
This manual contains information about the installation and operation of the AG-STAR system. It is beyond  
the scope of this manual to provide details on service or repair. Contact your local NovAtel dealer for any  
customer-service related inquiries.  
An AG-STAR system requires the addition of accessories and a power supply.  
The AG-STAR utilizes a comprehensive user-interface command structure, which requires communications  
through its communications ports. This manual describes the AG-STAR specific commands and logs, see  
Appendix B, Commands on page 49 and Appendix C, Logs on page 60. For descriptions of other commands  
and logs available for AG-STAR, refer to the OEMStar Firmware Reference Manual available from the  
NovAtel web site (www.novatel.com/support/manuals/). It is recommended that these documents be kept  
together for easy reference.  
®
AG-STAR output is compatible with post-processing software from NovAtel's Waypoint Products Group.  
Visit our web site at www.novatel.com for details.  
1.3 Conventions  
The following conventions are used in this manual:  
Information that supplements or clarifies text.  
A caution that actions, operation or configuration may lead to incorrect or improper use of the  
hardware.  
A warning that actions, operation or configuration may result in regulatory noncompliance,  
safety issues or equipment damage.  
The letter H in the Offset columns of the commands and logs tables represents the header length for  
that command or log. Refer to the OEMStar Firmware Reference Manual for ASCII and binary  
header details.  
The number following 0x is a hexadecimal number.  
Command descriptions’ brackets, [ ], indicate optional parameters.  
In tables where values are missing they are assumed to be reserved for future use.  
Status words are output as hexadecimal numbers and must be converted to binary format (and in  
some cases then also to decimal). For an example of this type of conversion, refer to the RANGE log  
Conversions and their binary or decimal results are always read from right to left. For a complete list  
of hexadecimal, binary and decimal equivalents, search our support materials for Unit Conversions  
on the NovAtel web site.  
See also Syntax Conventions on page 49 for more syntax when entering commands.  
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Chapter 2  
Installation and Setup  
This chapter contains instructions and tips to set up your AG-STAR to create a GNSS receiver system.  
2.1 Additional Equipment Required  
In order for the receiver to perform optimally, the following additional equipment is required:  
A cable harness for powering and communicating with the AG-STAR.  
You can use a NovAtel cable (such as part number 01018256) or a custom cable. See Appendix A,  
Technical Specifications on page 42 for information about the AG-STAR connector pinout and  
NovAtel cables.  
A fused power supply (user-supplied)  
A computer (user-supplied)  
2.1.1  
AG-STAR Setup  
Complete the following steps to connect and power the AG-STAR.  
1. Mount the AG-STAR on a secure, stable structure with an unobstructed view of the sky from horizon to  
2. Connect the NovAtel interface cable, or custom interface cable, to the COM and Power port on the back  
of the AG-STAR, see Figure 2, AG-STAR Connector.  
Figure 2: AG-STAR Connector  
Table 2: AG-STAR Connector Pin-Out  
Pin  
Use  
Pin  
Use  
1
2
3
COM1 TxD  
COM1 RxD  
8
9
RESERVED (Do not connect)  
Power Negative/Return  
Emulated Radar Output  
a
10  
COM2 TxD  
COM2 RxD  
a
4
11  
MKI (Mark Input)  
5
6
7
Signal Ground (COM/ER/MKI/PPS)  
12  
13  
14  
PPS (Pulse Per Second) Output  
RESERVED (Do not connect)  
Power Positive/Source  
CAN+  
CAN-  
a. On Bluetooth models, COM2 is not available.  
3. Connect the NovAtel or custom cable to a DB-9 serial port on a computer or other data storage device.  
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Installation and Setup  
Chapter 2  
4. Connect the NovAtel or custom cable to the power supply and turn on the power supply. The power LED  
on the receiver glows red when the AG-STAR is properly powered.  
Fuse/holder recommendations can be found in Table 9, Recommended Fuse and Fuse Holders  
Figure 3: Simplified AG-STAR Setup  
COM  
User supplied  
5A fast blow fuse  
COM  
CAN  
MKI  
PPS  
Emulated  
Radar  
Minimum conductor size for all wiring is 0.5 mm / 20 AWG.  
2.1.2  
Power Supply Requirements  
The AG-STAR requires +8 to +36 VDC for the input power to the receiver. See Section A.2, AG-STAR  
Specifications on page 43 for additional power supply specifications.  
The AG-STAR cable provides power in (labelled BATT+) and power ground (labelled BATT-) bare wires for  
connections from the AG-STAR to a vehicular power system (or equivalent). For cable details see  
The AG-STAR power source must be protected by a 5A fast blow fuse (user supplied) or  
damage to wiring may result (not covered by warranty).  
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Installation and Setup  
Chapter 2  
2.1.3  
Mounting Plate  
Two mounting plates are available to facilitate mounting the receiver: a surface mounting plate and a pole  
mounting plate.  
Figure 4: AG-STAR Surface Mounting Plate (01018317)  
All dimensions are in inches  
To install the surface mounting plate provided with the AG-STAR Development Kit, use the  
adhesive tape provided or the mounting holes at each corner of the plate.  
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Installation and Setup  
Chapter 2  
Figure 5: AG-STAR Pole Mounting Plate (01019142)  
All dimensions are in inches  
To install the pole mounting plate:  
1. Use four M4 screws to connect the mounting plate to the AG-STAR.  
2. Screw the mounting plate onto a mount, such as a range pole, tribrach, or tripod, with a 1" x  
14 thread.  
A 5/8” to 1” bushing adaptor is available (part number 12023275).  
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Installation and Setup  
Chapter 2  
2.1.4  
Mounting the AG-STAR  
Mount the AG-STAR on a secure, stable structure capable of safe operation in the specific environment.  
If installing on a vehicle, mount the AG-STAR on the vehicle roof, ideally close to the pivot point of the  
vehicle. The AG-STAR must be mounted with the connector facing the rear of the vehicle (see Figure 6,  
Figure 6: AG-STAR Orientation  
Route cable toward  
back of vehicle  
Orient toward the front  
of vehicle  
The AG-STAR must be rigidly secured to the vehicle to avoid errors caused by vibration and  
motion.  
If installing in a stationary location, mount the AG-STAR in a location that has a clear view of the sky so  
that each satellite above the horizon can be tracked without obstruction. For more information, refer to An  
Introduction to GNSS found at www.novatel.com/an-introduction-to-gnss/.  
2.1.5  
Connecting Data Communications Equipment  
To communicate with the receiver by sending commands and obtaining logs, a connection to data  
communications equipment is required. See Table 7, AG-STAR Communication/Power Cable Pinouts on  
page 47 for more information.  
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Installation and Setup  
Chapter 2  
2.2 Additional Features and Information  
This section contains information on the additional features of the AG-STAR, which may affect the overall  
design of your receiver system.  
2.2.1  
Status Indicators  
LED indicators on the AG-STAR provide the status of the receiver. Table 3, AG-STAR LED Status Indicators  
shows the meaning of the LED states in the expected sequence after power is applied.  
Table 3: AG-STAR LED Status Indicators  
Red  
Yellow  
Green  
Condition  
Off  
Off  
Off  
Off  
Off  
Power is not available.  
On  
On  
On  
On  
On  
Power is available but no satellites are being tracked yet  
Tracking at least one satellite but not a valid position.  
Position valid in basic autonomous mode.  
Flashing Off  
On  
On  
On  
Off  
Flashing SBAS tracking, but not enough data for enhanced solution.  
On  
Position valid in an enhanced accuracy mode  
(WAAS/EGNOS/MSAS/DGPS).  
Flashing means that the LED is turning on and off at a 1 Hz rate - 0.5 seconds on and 0.5  
seconds off.  
Troubleshooting:  
If the power is on but the yellow LED does not flash within one minute, then no satellites are being  
tracked. There may be excessive blockage or the AG-STAR may be defective. Make sure the AG-STAR  
has an unobstructed view of the sky. Try power cycling the AG-STAR.  
If the yellow LED is flashing but doesn’t progress to solid yellow within one minute, then insufficient  
satellites are being tracked or the signal quality is poor and ephemeris data cannot be received.  
Normally, four satellites are sufficient for a valid position as long as they are widely distributed in the sky.  
If LED is stuck on blinking yellow, there may be excessive signal blockage or the AG-STAR may be  
defective. Make sure the AG-STAR has an unobstructed view of the sky. Try power cycling the AG-STAR.  
If the yellow LED is on, but the green doesn’t turn on within five minutes than no SBAS or DGPS  
positions are available. If you are using SBAS, make sure SBAS is available in your area and that the  
AG-STAR is configured to enable SBAS positions (SBASCONTROL ENABLE and  
SELECTCHANCONFIG). For DGPS, make sure the AG-STAR is configured with the correct serial port  
parameters and to accept the DGPS protocol your area is using and that your data modem is connected  
and working.  
The green LED blinks when SBAS is detected then it comes on solid when SBAS is enabled. The LED  
will stay dark if SBAS is not detected.  
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Installation and Setup  
Chapter 2  
2.2.2  
MKI and PPS Strobes  
The Mark Input (MKI) and Pulse Per Second (PPS) strobes provide status and synchronization signals. PPS  
is a 3.3V CMOS output; MKI is a 5V logic tolerant input. For more information about the PPS and MKI  
2.2.3  
Emulated Radar (ER)  
The AG-STAR outputs an emulated RADAR signal via the bare wires labeled ER GND and ER_OUT on the  
details of this cable.  
The ER outputs a logic high of supply voltage minus 0.5 V minimum and logic low of 0.5 V maximum with a  
rise and fall time of less than 1 ms. The ER output references signal GND and provides logic low output until  
the receiver’s speed is greater than 1 km/Hr. ER can be configured to operate at one of three distinct  
frequencies (26.11, 28.12 or 36.11 Hz/km/Hr, with 26.11 Hz/km/Hr being the default value) and with an  
effective range from 1 km/Hr to 55 km/Hr for near-horizontal applications. See Section B.5,  
2.2.4  
Controller Area Network (CAN)  
NMEA 2000 is a CAN standard created by the National Marine Electronics Association and designed to  
support networking in marine applications. It functions over a longer physical distance, and supports more  
physical nodes than ISO 11783. The relationship between NMEA2000 and SAE J1939 is that J1939 is the  
standard, while the NMEA 2000 group has added some new messages (called PGNs or Parameter Group  
Numbers) and added a new, additional transport protocol called FastPacket. NMEA2000 compliant, for all  
intents and purposes, means J1939 compliant plus support for new NMEA2000 messages. J1939 is  
additionally “harmonized” with ISO 11783, a standard for the agriculture industry.  
The CAN module is generally not user-interactive. It is activated when a SETCANNAME command (see  
page 59) is entered, and after a SAVECONFIG, the CAN module is activated immediately on all subsequent  
start-ups. The module supports the following NMEA2000 Parameter Group Message (PGN):  
PGN 129029 GNSSPositionData (1 Hz)  
PGN 129025 GNSSPositionRapidUpdate (10 Hz)  
PGN 129026 COGandSOGRapidUpdate (10 Hz)  
Details about the PGN messages are found in the NMEA2000 specification which can be  
purchased directly from the National Marine Electronics Association (www.nmea.org/).  
Table 4: Available CAN Signals on the AG-STAR  
CAN  
Pins  
CAN+  
CAN-  
Pin 6  
Pin 7  
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Chapter 3  
Operation  
Before operating the AG-STAR for the first time, ensure that you have followed the installation instructions in  
Chapter 2, Installation and Setup on page 12. It is assumed that a computer is used during initial operation  
and testing for greater ease and versatility.  
3.1 Communications with the Receiver  
Communication with the receiver typically consists of issuing commands through the communication ports  
from an external serial communications device. This could be either a terminal or computer that is directly  
connected to the receiver serial port using a DB-9 connector on the AG-STAR multi-cable. If you are using a  
radio, it connects to another DB-9 connector on the same multi-cable by means of the radio serial cable  
supplied with the radio. It is recommended that you become thoroughly familiar with the commands and logs  
detailed in the OEMStar Firmware Reference Manual to ensure maximum utilization of the receiver’s  
capabilities.  
When power is applied to the AG-STAR, the Power LED lights and the AG-STAR begins a self  
test and the boot up process. After the self test and boot up have completed, the command  
prompt becomes available on the serial port.  
3.1.1  
Serial Port Default Settings  
The receiver communicates with your computer or terminal via an RS-232 serial port. For communication to  
occur, both the receiver and the computer or terminal have to be configured properly. The receiver’s COM1  
and COM2 default port settings are as follows:  
9600 bps, no parity, 8 data bits, 1 stop bit, no handshaking, echo off  
Changing the default settings requires using the COM command. See Section B.2, COM Configure COM  
Port on page 50 for details.  
The data transfer rate you choose determines how fast information is transmitted. For example, outputting a  
log whose message byte count is 96. The default port settings allows 10 bits/byte (8 data bits + 1 stop bit + 1  
framing bit). It therefore takes 960 bits per message. To get 10 messages per second then requires 9600 bps.  
Also remember that even if you set the bps to 9600, the actual data transfer rate is lower and depends on the  
number of satellites being tracked, data filters in use and idle time. It is suggested that you leave yourself a  
margin when choosing a data rate (115200 is recommended for most applications).  
Although the receiver can operate at data transfer rates as low as 300 bps, this is not desirable.  
For example, if several data logs are active (that is, a significant amount of information needs to  
be transmitted every second) but the bit rate is set too low, data will overflow the serial port  
buffers, causing an error condition in the receiver status and loss of data.  
3.1.2  
Communicating Using a Remote Terminal  
One method of communicating with the receiver is through a remote terminal. The receiver is pre-wired to  
allow proper RS-232 interface with a data terminal. To communicate with the terminal, the receiver only  
requires the RX, TX and GND lines to be used. Request to Send (RTS)/ Clear to Send (CTS) hardware  
handshaking is not available. Ensure the terminal’s communications set-up matches the receiver’s RS-232  
protocol.  
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Operation  
Chapter 3  
3.1.3  
Communicating Using a Computer  
A computer can be set up to emulate a remote terminal as well as provide the added flexibility of creating  
multiple command batch files and data logging storage files. Any standard communications software package  
that emulates a terminal can be used to establish bidirectional communications with the receiver. For  
example, HyperTerminal or NovAtel’s Graphic User Interface (GUI) program NovAtel Connect. All data is  
sent as raw 8-bit binary or ASCII characters.  
3.2 Getting Started  
3.2.1  
Starting the Receiver  
When first powered, the AG-STAR undergoes a complete self-test. The results of this test can be viewed by  
connecting to the receiver and requesting the RXSTATUS log. Refer to the OEMStar Firmware Reference  
Manual for more information.  
If a persistent error develops, contact your local NovAtel dealer first. If the problem is still unresolved, contact  
NovAtel directly through any of the methods listed in Customer Support on page 9.  
3.2.2  
Communicating with the Receiver Using NovAtel Connect  
NovAtel Connect is a Windows-based GUI used to access the receiver's many features. The Convert utility is  
a Windows-based utility that converts between file formats and strips unwanted records for data file  
compilation. Both are included in the NovAtel Connect PC Utilities bundle available from: www.novatel.com/  
Launch the NovAtel Connect program and select Device | Open from its main menu. The Open Configuration  
window appears.  
Figure 7: Open Configuration Window  
Refer to the NovAtel Connect help file by selecting the Help | Contents menu or pressing F1 while the cursor  
is in a NovAtel Connect window. Ensure the Console and ASCII Messages windows are open by selecting  
them from the View menu.  
When the receiver is first turned on, no data is transmitted from the COM ports except for the port prompt.  
The console window displays a port name:  
[COM1]  
or  
if connected to COM1 port  
[COM2]  
if connected to COM2 port or through Bluetooth  
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Operation  
Any of these prompts indicate that the receiver is ready and waiting for command input.  
Chapter 3  
1. You may also have to wait for output from receiver self tests. For example, on start-up, the  
AG-STAR receiver is set to log the RXSTATUSEVENTA log ONNEW on all ports. Refer to  
the OEMStar Firmware Reference Manual for more details.  
2. If you find that NovAtel Connect is unable to locate your AG-STAR receiver, try using a  
different COM port to communicate to the receiver. Once communication has been  
established, issue the command FRESET STANDARD. You should now be able to use your  
original communication port again.  
Commands are typed at the interfacing computing device’s keyboard and executed after sending a carriage  
return character which is usually the same as pressing the <Enter> key.  
An example of a response to an input command is the FIX POSITION command. It can be as:  
[COM2] FIX POSITION 51.11635 -114.0383 1048.2 [carriage return]  
<OK  
where [COM2]is the port prompt, followed by the command entered and [carriage return] is a prompt to  
press the <Enter> key.  
The example above illustrates the command input to the base receiver’s COM2 port, which sets the position  
of the base station receiver for differential operation. Confirmation that the command was actually accepted is  
the appearance of <OK.  
If a command is entered incorrectly, the receiver responds with:  
<Invalid Message ID  
(or a more detailed message)  
Ensure the Control Panel Power Settings on your computer are not set to go into Hibernate or  
Standby modes. Data will be lost if one of these modes occurs during a logging session.  
3.3 Channel Configuration  
The 14 channels available on the AG-STAR are configured by selecting one of eight predefined channel  
configuration sets using the SELECTCHANCONFIGcommand. For information about the  
SELECTCHANCONFIGcommand, see page 57.  
3.4 Transmitting and Receiving Corrections  
DGPS corrections can be transmitted from a base station to a rover station to improve position accuracy.  
The AG-STAR can receive RTCM, RTCA, CMR, CMR+, RTCM 2.3 and RTCM 3.0 corrections  
to resolve DGPS solutions. With the DGPS_TX model upgrade, the AG-STAR can transmit  
non-carrier phase RTCM and RTCA corrections. Contact your local NovAtel dealer for more  
information. To locate a dealer in your area contact NovAtel Inc.  
The base station is the GNSS receiver, which is acting as the stationary reference. It has a known position  
and transmits correction messages to the rover station. The rover station is the GNSS receiver which does  
not know its exact position and can be sent correction messages from a base station to calculate differential  
GNSS positions. The AG-STAR can be used as a base receiver to transmit DGPS corrections or a rover to  
receive the same corrections. An example of a differential setup is given in Figure 8, Basic Differential Setup  
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Operation  
Chapter 3  
Figure 8: Basic Differential Setup  
1
Rover Base  
4
7
COM1  
COM2  
2
1
6
5
3
COM1  
7
2
COM2  
3
5
Reference  
Description  
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
AG-STAR receiver  
User-supplied 5A fast blow fuse  
User-supplied power supply, for example a battery  
User-supplied device to COM1  
User-supplied radio device to COM2  
User-supplied computer, for setting up and monitoring, to COM1  
User-supplied cable or NovAtel 01018256 Communication/Power cable  
The configuration shown in Figure 8, Basic Differential Setup is valid for AG-STAR receivers  
without optional Bluetooth.  
For an AG-STAR receiver with Bluetooth, one of the serial devices connects through COM1 and  
the other devices must connect through Bluetooth.  
System biases can introduce errors, refer to An Introduction to GNSS found on our web site at  
www.novatel.com/an-introduction-to-gnss/ for more information. In most cases, a data link between the base  
station and rover station (two NovAtel receivers) is needed in order to receive corrections. SBAS corrections  
can be accomplished with one receiver and are exceptions to the base/rover concept. Generally a link  
capable of data throughput at a rate of 9600 bits per second, and less than 4.0 s latency, is recommended.  
Once the base and rover are set up, configure them as shown in the configuration examples that follow in  
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Operation  
Chapter 3  
3.4.1  
Base Station Configuration  
At the base station, enter the following commands:  
COM [port] bps [parity[databits[stopbits[handshake[echo[break]]]]]]  
interfacemode port rx_type tx_type [responses]  
fix position latitude longitude height  
log port message [trigger [period]]  
Examples of these commands include the following:  
RTCA  
pdpfilter disable  
com com2 115200 N 8 1 N off  
interfacemode com2 none rtca off  
fix position 51.11358042 -114.04358013 1059.4105 (enter your own lat, lon, hgt)  
log com2 rtca1 ontime 5  
log com2 rtcaephem ontime 10 1  
(optional)  
RTCM  
pdpfilter disable  
com com2 115200 N 8 1 N off  
interfacemode com2 none rtcm off  
fix position 51.11358042 -114.04358013 1059.4105 (enter your own lat, lon, hgt)  
log com2 rtcm1 ontime 5  
RTCMV3 pdpfilter disable  
com com2 9600 N 8 1 N off  
interfacemode com2 none rtcmv3 off  
fix position 51.11358042 -114.04358013 1059.4105  
log com2 rtcm1006 ontime 10  
log com2 rtcm1003 ontime 1  
CMR+  
pdpfilter disable  
com com2 9600 N 8 1 N off  
interfacemode com2 none cmr off  
fix position 51.11358042 -114.04358013 1059.4105  
log com2 cmrobs ontime 1  
log com2 cmrplus ontime 1 (Important to use ontime 1 with cmrplus)  
CMR  
pdpfilter disable  
com com2 9600 N 8 1 N off  
interfacemode com2 none cmr off  
fix position 51.11358042 -114.04358013 1059.4105  
log com2 cmrobs ontime 1  
log com2 cmrref ontime 10  
log com2 cmrdesc ontime 10 1  
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Operation  
Chapter 3  
3.4.2  
Rover Station Configuration  
At the rover station, enter:  
COM [port] bps [parity[databits[stopbits[handshake[echo[break]]]]]]  
interfacemode port rx_type tx_type [responses]  
For example:  
RTCA  
com com2 115200 N 8 1 N off  
interfacemode com2 rtca none off  
RTCM  
com com2 115200 N 8 1 N off  
interfacemode com2 rtcm none off  
RTCMV3 com com2 115200 N 8 1 N off  
interfacemode com2 rtcmv3 none off  
CMR+  
CMR  
com com2 115200 N 8 1 N off  
interfacemode com2 cmr none off  
com com2 115200 N 8 1 N off  
interfacemode com2 cmr none off  
(same as CMR+)  
3.4.3  
GPS + GLONASS Base and Rover Configuration  
This section shows you how to set up base and rover AG-STAR GPS + GLONASS enabled receivers for  
GPS + GLONASS DGPS corrections operation:  
3.4.3.1  
Base Station:  
pdpfilter disable  
fix position lat lon hgt  
com com2 115200 N 8 1 N off  
(enter your own lat, lon, and hgt values)  
interfacemode com2 none rtcm off  
log com2 rtcm1 ontime 5  
log com2 rtcm31 ontime 5 1  
saveconfig  
(optional, save configuration to non-volatile memory)  
3.4.3.2  
Rover Station (DGPS positions):  
com com2 115200 N 8 1 N off  
interfacemode com2 rtcm none off  
log com1 bestposa ontime 1 (optional, view position information)  
saveconfig  
(optional, save configuration to non-volatile memory)  
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Operation  
Chapter 3  
3.4.4  
Configuration Notes  
For compatibility with other GNSS receivers, and to minimize message size, it is recommended that you use  
the standard form of RTCA, RTCM, RTCMV3 or CMR corrections as shown in the previous base and rover  
examples. This requires using the INTERFACEMODE command to dedicate one direction of a serial port to  
only that message type. When the INTERFACEMODE command is used to change the mode from the  
default, NOVATEL, you can no longer use NovAtel format messages.  
If you wish to mix NovAtel format messages and RTCA, RTCM, RTCMV3 or CMR messages on the same  
port, you can leave the INTERFACEMODE set to NOVATEL and log out variants of the standard correction  
messages with a NovAtel header. ASCII or binary variants can be requested by simply appending an "A" or  
"B" to the standard message name. For example on the base station:  
interfacemode com2 novatel novatel  
fix position 51.11358042 -114.04358013 1059.4105  
log com2 rtcm1b ontime 2  
Using the receiver in this mode consumes more CPU bandwidth than using the native differential messages  
At the rover station you can leave the INTERFACEMODE default settings (interfacemode com2 novatel  
novatel). The rover receiver recognizes the default and uses the corrections it receives with a NovAtel  
header.  
The PSRDIFFSOURCE command sets the station ID values which identify the base stations from which to  
accept pseudorange corrections. This is a useful command when the rover station is receiving corrections  
from multiple base stations. Refer to An Introduction to GNSS for more information on SBAS, available from  
All PSRDIFFSOURCE entries fall back to SBAS (even NONE) for backwards compatibility.  
At the base station it is also possible to log out the contents of the standard corrections in a form that is easier  
to read or process. These larger variants have the correction fields broken out into standard types within the  
log, rather than compressed into bit fields. This can be useful to modify the format of the corrections for a  
non-standard application or to look at the corrections for system debugging purposes. These variants have  
"DATA" as part of their names (for example, RTCADATA1, RTCMDATA1, CMRDATAOBS, and more). Refer  
to the OEMStar Firmware Reference Manual for detailed descriptions of the various message formats.  
Information on how to send multiple commands and log requests using Windows, can be found on our web  
3.5 GLIDE  
GLIDE is an optional feature on the AG-STAR. You must order a GLIDE capable model to use  
this feature.  
NovAtel’s GLIDE is an optional feature on the AG-STAR. GLIDE is a positioning algorithm for single  
frequency GPS and GPS/GLONASS applications. GLIDE produces a smooth position output tuned for  
applications where optimal time relative (pass to pass) accuracy is more important than absolute accuracy.  
Because of this, it is well suited for agricultural applications.  
Multipath signals tend to induce time-varying biases and increase the measurement noise on the L1  
pseudorange measurements. Carrier phase measurements are much less susceptible to the effects of  
multipath. The GLIDE algorithm fuses the information from the L1 code and the L1 phase measurements into  
a Position-Time-Velocity (PVT) solution.  
GLIDE includes settings for a dynamic mode, a static mode, and an “auto” mode, where the filtering  
parameters are automatically adjusted as vehicle velocity varies between stationary and dynamic states.  
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Operation  
Chapter 3  
Refer to the NovAtel white papers at www.novatel.com/support/search/items/White%20Paper for more  
information on GLIDE. Refer also to application note “APN-038 Pseudorange/Delta-Phase (PDP) and GLIDE  
3.6 Emulated Radar (ER)  
A typical radar sensor emits radio beams that bounce off the ground and computes ground speed based on  
the speed at which objects are passing in front of the sensor. The output of the sensor is a digital pulse, the  
frequency of which is proportional to the vehicle’s ground speed. This is often used in agricultural applications  
such as planting and spraying. The AG-STAR eliminates the need for separate ground-sensing radar  
equipment by converting the GPS-derived velocity to proportional frequency output. The following emulated  
radar signal parameters can be configured by the customer:  
Frequency Step: Specifies how the frequency output relates to the vehicle speed.  
Signal Update Rate: Specifies how often the frequency output is updated to match the vehicle speed.  
Response Mode: Specifies how quickly changes in velocity are reflected in the frequency output.  
Setting a slower response mode reduces spikes (noise) in the velocity but increases latency.  
Setting a higher response mode reduces latency, but may result in noisier frequency output. Refer to  
After it is configured using the RADARCFG command, Emulated Radar (ER) pulses are output through the  
RADARSIGNAL log (see page 62).  
3.7 Recommended Configuration  
The following command is recommended to enable CAN:  
setcanname 305  
The following command is recommended to enable SBAS (WAAS/EGNOS/MSAS) corrections:  
sbascontrol enable  
The following commands are recommended to enable GLIDE:  
pdpfilter enable  
pdpmode relative auto  
NovAtel has registered manufactured ID code 305 with J1939. When complete, your configuration can be  
saved with the SAVECONFIG command. For more information about these commands, refer to the OEMStar  
Firmware Reference Manual, available from our web site and APN-050 SMART-AG Firmware Release,  
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Chapter 4  
Bluetooth Configuration  
Bluetooth is a wireless radio communication standard designed for use over short ranges (within 10 m). This  
chapter describes how to use the Bluetooth interface on the AG-STAR.  
4.1 Bluetooth Wireless Technology on the AG-STAR receiver  
Bluetooth wireless technology is configured on the AG-STAR’s internal COM2 port. After your computer is  
configured for Bluetooth operation, use HyperTerminal or NovAtel Connect to communicate through COM2.  
To log data over the Bluetooth port, specify COM2 as the output port (e.g. log com2 bestposa ontime 1).  
4.2 Pairing with a new AG-STAR  
Ensure that your computer is equipped with a built-in, or external plug-in, Bluetooth adapter and  
is already configured with the appropriate Bluetooth driver.  
The information in this section is specific to pairing an AG-STAR with a Windows 7 based  
computer.  
For information about pairing the AG-STAR with other Bluetooth capable devices, refer to the  
device’s user documentation.  
To pair with an AG-STAR in range:  
1. Power on the AG-STAR.  
2. On the computer, double-click the Bluetooth icon in the notification area, see Figure 9, Bluetooth Icon.  
The Bluetooth Devices window opens, see Figure 10 on page 28.  
Figure 9: Bluetooth Icon  
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Bluetooth Configuration  
Chapter 4  
Figure 10: Bluetooth Devices Window  
3. On the Bluetooth Devices window, click the Add a device button. The Add a device window appears. The  
computer searches for any Bluetooth device in range and displays the devices found on the window, see  
Figure 11: Add a device window  
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Bluetooth Configuration  
Chapter 4  
4. Select the AG-STAR system and click the Next button. The Select a pairing option window appears, see  
Figure 12: Add a device - Select a pairing option  
5. Click the Enter the device’s pairing code button. The Enter the pairing code for the device window  
appears, see Figure 13 on page 29.  
Figure 13: Add a device - Enter pairing code  
6. Type the AG-STAR pairing code, 0000, and click the Next button.  
Windows installs the serial port driver and assigns a serial port number to the Bluetooth link. Make a note  
of the serial port number assigned. See Figure 14, Bluetooth Link Serial Port on page 30 and Figure 15,  
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Bluetooth Configuration  
Chapter 4  
Figure 14: Bluetooth Link Serial Port  
Figure 15: Add a device - Successful  
On some operating systems, the AG-STAR must be re-paired every time it is restarted.  
To re-pair in Windows 7, click the Bluetooth icon in the notification area and enter the pairing  
code when prompted.  
For instructions on re-pairing in other operating systems, see the user documentation that came  
with the operating system.  
4.3 Determining the Bluetooth Serial Port  
To determine the serial port associated with the Bluetooth link to the AG-STAR:  
1. Double-click the Bluetooth icon in the notification area, see Figure 16, Bluetooth Icon. The Bluetooth  
Devices window opens, see Figure 17 on page 31.  
Figure 16: Bluetooth Icon  
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Bluetooth Configuration  
Chapter 4  
Figure 17: Bluetooth Devices Window  
2. In the Bluetooth Devices window, right-click the AG-STAR device and select Properties, see Figure 18 on  
The Properties window for the AG-STAR appears, see Figure 19 on page 32.  
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Bluetooth Configuration  
Chapter 4  
Figure 18: Bluetooth Devices Window - Device Menu  
Figure 19: Bluetooth Devices Window - Properties  
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Bluetooth Configuration  
Chapter 4  
3. Click the Services tab. The Services tab displays the serial port information about the Bluetooth link to  
the AG-STAR. See Figure 20 on page 33.  
Figure 20: Properties - Services Tab  
4.4 Communicate with the AG-STAR Using Bluetooth Wireless Technology  
1. Open a terminal program (HyperTerminal, for example) and configure it to the serial port assigned to the  
Bluetooth link. If you do not know the serial port information, see Section 4.3, Determining the Bluetooth  
2. Configure the port settings as follows:  
9600 bps, no parity, 8 data bits, 1 stop bit, no handshaking, echo off  
3. Through the terminal program, connect to the Bluetooth serial port and verify the connection.  
4. Type the following VERSION log request into the command prompt to ensure that the connection works:  
log version  
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Chapter 5  
NovAtel Firmware and Software  
Download the most recent versions of the NovAtel firmware and receiver software from the NovAtel website  
AG-STAR Firmware and Software  
Refer to Transferring Firmware Files on page 36 for descriptions of the Update and OEM  
versions.  
NovAtel Connect PC Utilities Software Bundle  
Bundled PC Utilities software includes:  
NovAtel Connect (an interface for monitoring and configuring the receiver)  
Connection Import (imports connection profiles from previous versions of NovAtel Connect)  
Convert (converts receiver data logs into different formats)  
USB Drivers and Window Signing  
The NovAtel Connect PC Utilities bundle can be download from our web site: www.novatel.com/  
Firmware and Software included  
SoftLoad firmware  
WinLoad software utility  
WinLoad and SoftLoad instructions follow.  
5.1 Firmware Updates and Model Upgrades  
A local NovAtel dealer can provide all the information needed to upgrade or update a receiver. Refer to  
www.novatel.com/where-to-buy for contact information or contact [email protected] or  
5.1.1  
Firmware Updates  
Firmware updates are firmware releases that include fixes and enhancements to the receiver functionality.  
Firmware updates are released on the NovAtel web site as they become available. New firmware must be  
loaded into the receiver through one of the COM ports. Once loaded, the receiver reboots and begins  
operating with the new firmware.  
Direct access to a serial COM port on the AG-STAR is required.  
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NovAtel Firmware and Software  
Chapter 5  
5.1.2  
Model Upgrades  
Model upgrades enable purchased receiver features.  
Contact a local NovAtel dealer to assist in selecting the upgrade options that best suit your GNSS needs at  
upgrade authorization code for trial purposes.  
The receiver stores the firmware in Non-Volatile Memory (NVM), which allows model upgrades to be  
performed without returning the receiver to the dealer. Model upgrades can be applied to the receiver with an  
authorization code and the AUTHcommand.  
5.2 Authorization Code  
An authorization code, commonly known as an auth-code, is required to upgrade and possibly update an  
AG-STAR receiver. Auth-codes are obtained by contacting NovAtel Customer Support. Upon contact,  
NovAtel Customer Support requires:  
the receiver model number  
the receiver serial number  
the receiver firmware version  
Enter the LOG VERSIONcommand to determine the receiver model, serial number and firmware version.  
Example:  
Model  
Serial  
FIRMWARE  
ENTER  
Number  
Number  
Version  
GPSCARD “LXGMTSA” “DHD13302094” “M6XV1G-2.02-TT” “L6X010106RN0000”  
Product  
Family  
Release  
Indicator  
Firmware  
Number  
Hardware  
Version  
After determining the appropriate model and firmware version the authorization code (auth-code) is issued.  
The auth-code is required to unlock the features on the new model type.  
To upgrade to a new model with the same firmware version, use the AUTHcommand with the issued auth-  
code (if required), as outlined in Updating or Upgrading Using the WinLoad Utility on page 36.  
To upgrade to a new model with a higher firmware version, the new firmware .HEX file needs to be loaded  
into the AG-STAR receiver using the WinLoad utility program. WinLoad and the firmware .HEX files can be  
the WinLoad Utility on page 36 for use instructions.  
The procedure for loading firmware is the same. Refer to Section 5.5, Upgrading Using the  
An authorization code is still required if the software model changes for temporary trial  
upgrades or purchased permanent upgrades.  
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NovAtel Firmware and Software  
Chapter 5  
5.3 Updating or Upgrading Using the WinLoad Utility  
WinLoad is the simplest and most common way to update or upgrade an AG-STAR receiver.  
5.3.1  
Transferring Firmware Files  
To proceed with an update or possibly an upgrade, obtain the latest version of firmware from the NovAtel  
5.3.1.1  
Types of Firmware Files  
The firmware update or upgrade file is one of two types:  
Update Version (UPDT) - The update version includes the authorization codes for all AG-STAR  
receivers and receiver model upgrades purchased before the cut-off date . The update version is  
named UPDTXXXX.EXE, where XXXX is the firmware version. If the receiver or model upgrade was  
purchased after the cut-off date, the authorization code does not appear in the UPDT file and the  
OEM version must be used.  
1
OEM Version - Use the OEM version if the receiver or model upgrade was purchased after the cut-  
off date. When the OEM version is used, NovAtel Customer Service must generate and provide the  
required authorization code. Authorization codes are obtained by contacting [email protected]  
The OEM version is named OEMXXXX.EXE, where XXXX is the firmware version.  
For convenience, copy the update file to a GNSS sub-directory (for example, C:\GNSS\LOADER).  
If the firmware update file is password protected, NovAtel Customer Support provides the required password.  
After copying the file to a computer, perform the following steps to extract the files:  
Syntax:  
[filename] [password] (if required)  
where filename is the name of the compressed file (but not including the .EXE extension) and password is  
the password if required for extraction.  
Example:  
L6X010100RN0000.hex  
In the above example, a window appears asking for a password.  
The self-extracting archive produces the following files:  
winload.exe  
howto.txt  
WinLoad utility program  
Instructions on how to use the WinLoad utility  
Information on the changes made in the firmware since the last revision  
whatsnew.rtf  
x..x.hex  
Firmware version upgrade file, where x..x defines the product name and release (e.g.,  
L6X010100RN0000.hex)  
The files are extracted to unzip/program files/NovAtel Inc/x.xxx Full Update Disk, where x.xxx is the firmware  
version.  
NovAtel has an online video tutorial that explains firmware uploading at www.novatel.com/  
1. For further information and the exact cut-off date, refer to the NovAtel website at www.novatel.com/  
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NovAtel Firmware and Software  
Chapter 5  
AG-STAR Application Software  
The AG-STAR receiver has two types of software loaded, the OEM6 firmware and the AG-STAR Application  
Software. The OEM6 firmware provides the features that are common to all OEM6 receivers. The Application  
Software provides the special features available on the AG-STAR.  
The Application Software is available from the NovAtel website at www.novatel.com/support/firmware-  
downloads and is loaded onto the AG-STAR receiver using the same procedures used for the OEM6  
firmware. An authorization code is not required for Application Software updates.  
5.3.2  
Using the WinLoad Utility  
If opening WinLoad for the first time, ensure the file and communications settings are correct.  
5.3.2.1  
Select File |Open. Navigate to the file to open (Figure 21).  
Figure 21: WinLoad’s Open Window  
Open a File to Download  
When a file is selected, the filename appears in the main WinLoad display area and in the title bar  
(Figure 22).  
Figure 22: Open File in WinLoad  
5.3.2.2  
Communications Settings  
To set the communications port and baud rate, select Settings | COM Settings. Choose the computer port to  
use from the Com Port drop down list and the baud rate from the Download Baudrate drop down list. Set the  
baud rate as high as possible (the default of 115200 and is preferred).  
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NovAtel Firmware and Software  
Chapter 5  
Figure 23: COM Port Setup  
5.3.2.3  
Downloading Firmware  
1. Select the file to download according to Section 5.3.2.1, Open a File to Download on page 37.  
2. Ensure the file path and name are displayed in main display area (see Figure 22, Open File in WinLoad  
3. Click Write Flash to download the firmware.  
4. When Searching for cardappears in the main display, power cycle the receiver.  
Figure 24: Searching for Card  
5. If the Authorization Code window appears, enter the auth-code and click OK. See Section 5.2,  
Authorization Code on page 35 for further information about the Authorization Code.  
Figure 25: Authorization Code Window  
6. The receiver finishes the download and then resets. The process is complete when Doneappears in the  
main display area.  
Figure 26: Upgrade Process Complete  
7. Close WinLoad.  
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NovAtel Firmware and Software  
Chapter 5  
5.4 Updating using SoftLoad Commands  
Use SoftLoad to update a receiver.  
Use SoftLoad if automated loading is required or the platform used to communicate with the  
receiver if not supported by WinLoad.  
Refer to Section 5.3.1.1, Types of Firmware Files on page 36 for details on updating versus  
upgrading.  
1. Open a connection to any port on the receiver.  
2. Request the SOFTLOADSTATUSA log using the following command:  
LOG SOFTLOADSTATUSA ONCHANGED.  
3. Initialize SoftLoad with a SOFTLOADRESETcommand. This command stops all tracking on the  
receiver to ensure sufficient memory is available for the loading process. A RXSTATUSEVENTA log  
reports a SoftLoad In Progress status.  
4. Open the *.HEX firmware file.  
5. Send each line of the *.HEX file to the receiver in a SOFTLOADSRECcommand. The S-Records must  
be enclosed by quotation marks:  
SOFTLOADSREC "<S-RECORD>"  
6. Send the SOFTLOADCOMMITcommand.  
7. During the loading process, SOFTLOADSTATUSA logs report the load status. Wait for the  
SOFTLOADSTATUSA to indicate loading is COMPLETE.  
8. Send the new auth-code for the receiver with the following special case of the AUTH command:  
AUTH ADD_DOWNLOAD <auth-code>  
9. Reset the receiver by entering RESET, FRESETor power cycling.  
10. Once the receiver resets, the new version of firmware is active.  
The SoftLoad process can be cancelled safely at any time during the process using the RESET  
command.  
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NovAtel Firmware and Software  
Chapter 5  
5.4.1  
Working with S-Records  
Records beginning with S0, S5 and S7 should be passed to the receiver directly using the  
SOFTLOADSREC command. These records contain meta data about the firmware image.  
Records beginning with S3 form the actual firmware image and can be converted to SOFTLOADDATA  
binary commands. Aside from the header, each pair of characters forms the ASCII representation of  
binary byte. The format is as follows:  
S3 LL  
AAAAAAAA  
DDDDDDDD...DDDDDDDD  
CC  
Check Sum. One's compliment of all other  
bytes  
Little Endian Data. These bytes are copied into the "data" field of the  
SOFTLOADDATA command  
4 - Byte Address. Set this as the value of "offset" in the SOFTLOADDATA command  
Length. This is the hexadecimal number of character pairs to follow in the record. This value minus  
4 bytes for the address and 1 byte for the check sum is copied into the "data length" field of the  
SOFTLOADDATA command  
Header  
Multiple S3 records can be packaged into a single SOFTLOADDATAcommand as long as the data  
from one S3 record follows immediately after the previous record, up to a maximum of 4096 bytes of  
data. That is, the address must equal the previous address plus the previous data length. The "offset"  
field remains the address of the first S3 record and the "data" and "data length" are updated to include  
the new data.  
The hex file data may contain many gaps and jumps. For example, in most NovAtel hex files data for  
address 0x000_00000 is stored near the very end of the file.  
5.5 Upgrading Using the AUTH Command  
The AUTHcommand authorizes the enabling (unlocking) of model features. The AUTHcommand is used to  
upgrade a new receiver model, available with the same firmware version as the current model. This  
command only functions with a valid auth-code assigned by NovAtel Customer Support.  
The upgrade can be performed directly through the NovAtel Connect command line or from any other  
communications program.  
Refer to Section 5.3.1.1, Types of Firmware Files on page 36 for details on updating versus  
upgrading.  
5.5.1  
Upgrade Procedure  
1. Power up the receiver and establish communications.  
2. Issue the LOG VERSIONcommand to verify the current model, firmware version and serial number  
(refer to Section 5.2, Authorization Code on page 35 for instructions on obtaining).  
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NovAtel Firmware and Software  
Chapter 5  
3. Issue the AUTH command, followed by the auth-code and model type (refer to Section 5.2,  
Authorization Code on page 35 for details on obtaining any auth-code). The syntax is as follows:  
auth <your auth-code here>  
where authis a command that enables model upgrades and auth-codeis the upgrade authorization code,  
expressed as follows:  
XXXXXX,XXXXXX,XXXXXX,XXXXXX,XXXXXX,MODEL,EXPDATE  
where:  
1. Each X character is a case-insensitive ASCII character.  
2. The MODEL string is a maximum of 15 characters long and represents the model enabled by the auth-  
code.  
3. The EXPDATE string is the auth-code’s expiry date, in YYMMDD format  
Example:  
auth 7WBMBK,887CB6,K5J3FH,5DF5P2,42PW8G,D1SB0GTT0,121211  
When the AUTHcommand is executed, the receiver reboots. Issuing the LOG VERSIONcommand  
confirms the new upgrade model type and firmware version number.  
If communicating using NovAtel Connect, the communication path must be closed and reopened using the  
Device menu.  
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Appendix A  
Technical Specifications  
A.1 AG-STAR Receiver Performance  
PERFORMANCE  
14 GPS L1  
a
12 GPS L1 + 2 SBAS  
10 GPS L1 + 4 GLONASS L1  
8 GPS L1 + 6 GLONASS L1  
Channel Configuration  
a
8 GPS L1 + 4 GLONASS L1 + 2 SBAS  
a
10 GPS L1 + 2 GLONASS L1 + 2 SBAS  
7 GPS L1 + 7 GLONASS L1  
14 GLO L1  
Absolute  
Autonomous  
1.5 m  
0.9 m  
0.5 m  
b
Horizontal Position Accuracy (RMS)  
a
SBAS  
DGPS  
GPS  
GLONASS  
35 cm  
Measurement Precision (RMS)  
Maximum Data Rate  
L1 C/A Code  
5 cm  
L1 Carrier Phase  
0.6 mm  
1.5 mm  
Measurements  
Position  
10 Hz  
10 Hz  
c
Cold Start  
85 s  
55 s  
Time to First Fix  
d
Hot Start  
Signal Reacquisition  
Time Accuracy (RMS)  
L1  
<1.0 s (typical)  
GPS  
GLONASS  
40 ns  
20 ns  
b
Velocity Accuracy (RMS)  
0.05 m/s  
a. Satellite Based Augmentation Systems (SBAS) include WAAS (North America), EGNOS (Europe) and MSAS (Japan).  
b. Typical values. Performance specifications subject to GPS system characteristics, US DOD operational  
degradation, ionospheric and tropospheric conditions, satellite geometry, baseline length, multipath effects and the  
presence of intentional or unintentional interference sources.  
Export licensing restricts operation to a maximum velocity of 515 metres per second.  
c. Typical value. No almanac or ephemerides and no approximate position or time.  
d. Typical value. Almanac and recent ephemerides saved and approximate time entered. For more information, refer to  
the “SETAPPROXTIME” command in the OEMStar Firmware Reference Manual.  
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A.2 AG-STAR Specifications  
INPUT/OUTPUT CONNECTORS  
+8 to +36 V DC at 2.5 W (typical while logging)  
a
AG-STAR COM/PWR  
For the cable pinouts and drawings, see Section A.2.2, AG-STAR Communications/  
Serial Com Ports  
CAN  
RS-232 F Compliant (Rx and Tx signals only)  
SAE J1939/ ISO 11783/ ISO 11898 Compatible  
Emulated Radar Output  
High = Supply Voltage -0.5V Minimum  
Low = 0.5V Maximum  
Load ≥ 3k Ohm  
PPS Output  
MKI Input  
3.3V CMOS Logic Compatible  
3.3V CMOS Logic / 5V Tolerant  
INPUT/ OUTPUT CONNECTOR PROTECTION  
Electrical Conducted/  
Coupled disturbance  
tolerance  
ISO 7637-2:2004  
Functional Class A: Pulses 2a, 3a, 3b, 4  
Functional Class C: Pulses 1, 2b  
LED INDICATORS  
More details can also be found in Section 2.2.1, Status Indicators on page 17.  
PHYSICAL  
b
Size  
155.3 x 66.8 x 155 mm  
Weight  
495 g maximum  
ENVIRONMENTAL  
Operating Temperature  
Storage Temperature  
Humidity  
-40C to +75C  
-55C to +90C  
MIL-STD-810G-Method 507.5  
MIL-STD-810G Method 512.5  
Immersion  
c
Vibration  
Random  
Sinusoidal  
Shock  
MIL-STD-810G 514.6E-1  
ASAE EP455, Section 5.15.2 Level 1 & 2  
MIL-STD-810-G Method 516.6  
a. When tracking GPS satellites.  
b. denotes diameter, here and in Figure 27, AG-STAR Dimensions on page 45.  
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Table 5: AG-STAR Strobes  
Factory  
Default  
Behavior  
a
Strobes  
Input/Output  
Comment  
Default  
Event Mark In Dedicated  
Input  
Active low  
An input mark for which a pulse greater  
than 150 ns triggers certain logs to be  
generated. (Refer to the MARKPOS and  
MARKTIME logs and ONMARK trigger.)  
Polarity is configurable using the  
(MKI)  
pin  
Leadingedge  
triggered  
MARKCONTROL command.  
PPS  
Dedicated  
pin  
Output  
Active low  
A time synchronization output. This is a  
pulse where the leading edge is  
synchronized to receiver-calculated GPS  
Time. The polarity and period can be  
configured using the PPSCONTROL  
command.  
a. The commands and logs shown in capital letters (for example, MARKCONTROL) are discussed in further detail  
in the OEMStar Family Firmware Reference Manual.  
Table 6: AG-STAR Input/Output Electrical Specifications  
Mininum  
(V)  
Typical  
(V)  
Maximum  
(V)  
Current  
(mA)  
a
I/O Line  
Sym  
Conditions  
V
0.8 V  
-4 mA  
OL  
OH  
IL  
PPS  
V
V
V
2.3 V  
2.0 V  
-8 mA  
With on-board I/O supply,  
VDDIO=3.3V  
0.8 V  
0.25 mA  
0.30 mA  
MKI  
IH  
a. The above characteristics are applicable over the operating temperature range.  
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A.2.1 Dimensions  
Figure 27: AG-STAR Dimensions  
All dimension are in millimeters. Use the Unit Conversions page found at www.novatel.com/  
support/knowledge-and-learning/ for conversion to other measurements.  
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A.2.2 AG-STAR Communications/Power Cable (01018256)  
The AG-STAR cable that accompanies the AG-STAR Development Kit, see Figure 28, AG-STAR  
Communication/Power Cable, provides a means of supplying power from a battery while operating in the  
field. The exposed wires (red for positive and black for negative) can then be connected to a vehicular power  
circuit (or equivalent) protected by a 5A fast blow fuse (user supplied). The cable also has two DB-9  
connectors. One can accommodate a computer serial (RS-232) communication port and the other can  
connect to a modem or radio transmitter to propagate differential corrections (refer to your user-supplied  
modem or radio transmitter user guide for more information on its connectors).  
Bluetooth wireless technology uses the COM2 port. When Bluetooth wireless technology is  
enabled, COM2 is not available on the AG-STAR connector or the cable.  
In addition, there are a number of bare wires where the outer insulation is cut away but the wires beneath are  
intact. See Table 7, AG-STAR Communication/Power Cable Pinouts on page 47 for their pinouts. For more  
information on mating connectors and part numbers, see Table 8, AG-STAR Mating Connectors on page 48.  
This cable is RoHS compliant.  
Figure 28: AG-STAR Communication/Power Cable  
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Table 7: AG-STAR Communication/Power Cable Pinouts  
Signal Name  
COM1_TXD  
J1  
J2  
J3  
Label  
1
2
3
4
2
3
COM1_RXD  
COM2_TXD  
COM2_RXD  
COM1 GND  
COM2 GND  
MKI GND  
2
3
5
5
5
MKI GND  
ER GND  
ER GND  
PPS GND  
PULSE PER SECOND GND  
CAN+  
6
7
CANI +  
CANI -  
CAN-  
RESERVED  
PWR RET (GND)  
EMULATED RADAR OUT  
EVENT MARK IN  
PPS  
8
9
BATT -  
ER_OUT  
MKI  
10  
11  
12  
13  
14  
PPS  
RESERVED  
PWR INPUT  
BATT +  
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A.2.3 AG-STAR Connector and Cable Requirements  
Custom cables for installing your AG-STAR can be created using the following guidelines:  
Wire size: must be 0.5 mm-1.25 mm (20-16 AWG)  
Batt + connection must be protected by 5A fast blow fuse  
Serial data signals (TxD, RxD, signal ground) must be run in shielded cable.  
Connect shields to ground at the AG-STAR end only.  
CAN signal conductors must be twisted (40 twists/m, 12 twists/ft)  
Use only the recommended mating connectors listed below. Use only gold plated pins  
Failure to observe the given cable construction guidelines in this section will result in damage to  
the wiring (not covered by warranty).  
The connector used in the AG-STAR is an “AMPSEAL” dust and water sealed type produced by Tyco. The  
following part numbers pertain to the mating connector required to make connections to the AG-STAR. These  
numbers are provided for information only and are not available from NovAtel as separate parts.  
Table 8: AG-STAR Mating Connectors  
Product  
Part Description  
Company Part Number  
AG-STAR mating connector (Figure 28, AG-STAR 14-pin sealed receptacle Tyco/AMP 776273-1  
Gold plated pins for AG-STAR connector/loose  
Gold plated pins for AG-STAR connector/strip  
Seal Plug for unused pins on mating connector  
housing-black  
Pins, loose piece  
Pins, strip (reel)  
Seal Plug  
Tyco/AMP 770854-3  
Tyco/AMP 770520-3  
Tyco/AMP 770678-1  
Table 9, Recommended Fuse and Fuse Holders on page 48 details the part numbers for recommended fuses  
and fuse holders. These numbers are provided for information only and are not available from NovAtel as  
separate parts.  
Table 9: Recommended Fuse and Fuse Holders  
Fuse  
12 V System Fuse  
Recommended Fuse/Fuse Holder  
ATO Silver Blade Fuse 5 A (32 V) Littelfuse  
Or Equivalent  
0287005  
(standard size blade)  
Mini Blade Fuse 5A (32 V)  
Littelfuse  
0297005  
12 V System Fuse  
(mini size blade)  
Or Equivalent  
24 V System Fuse  
FKS ATO Blade Fuse 5A (80 V)  
Littelfuse  
166.7000.450  
High Reliability, Harsh Environment  
(standard size blade)  
Or Equivalent  
Waterproof ATO Fuse Holder  
Littelfuse  
FHAC0001  
0FHM0001  
Inline Fuse Holder  
(for standard size blade)  
Or Equivalent  
Waterproof Mini Fuse Holder  
Littelfuse  
Inline Fuse Holder  
(for mini size blade)  
Or Equivalent  
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Appendix B  
Commands  
The AG-STAR firmware implements the OEMStar family command set, documented in the OEMStar  
Firmware Reference Manual. Commonly used AG-STAR commands are summarized in Table 10, AG-STAR  
Commands in Alphabetical Order and documented in this appendix.  
Table 10: AG-STAR Commands in Alphabetical Order  
ASCII Command  
Message ID  
Description  
Configure the receiver serial port.  
COM  
4
FRESET  
LOG  
20  
Factory reset (Existing OEMStar command extended to AG-STAR)  
Request logs from the receiver  
1
RADARCFG  
RESET  
8192  
18  
Configure the ER signal output (New AG-STAR command)  
Perform a hardware reset  
SETCANNAME  
1091  
Set the CAN name fields.  
The arguments for each of these commands are described in the following sections.  
For a complete listing and description of the other commands that the AG-STAR, an OEMStar-based  
receiver, is capable of processing, refer to the OEMStar Firmware Reference Manual.  
B.1 Syntax Conventions  
The following rules apply when entering commands, at the command prompt, from a keyboard.  
1. Courier font is used to illustrate program output or user input.  
2. References to other commands, logs or any of their fields are shown in italics.  
3. The commands are not case sensitive. For example, you could type either RESET or reset.  
4. Except where noted, either a space or a comma can separate commands and their required entries. For  
example, you could type either fix position 51.11358042 -114.04358013 1059.4105or fix  
position 51.11358042, -114.04358013, 1059.4105.  
5. At the end of a command, a carriage return is required. For example, press <Enter> or <Return> on your  
keyboard.  
6. Responses are provided to indicate whether or not an entered command was accepted. The format of  
the response depends on the format of the command. Refer to the OEMStar Firmware Reference Manual  
for more information.  
7. Optional parameters are indicated by square brackets ( [ ]). For commands that contain optional  
parameters, the value used if the optional parameter is not specified is given in the syntax table for the  
command.  
8. Data format definitions, as specified in the “Format” field, are detailed in the OEMStar Firmware  
Reference Manual. Note that all binary data is little-endian byte-ordered.  
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B.2 COM Configure COM Port  
This command permits you to configure the receiver’s asynchronous serial port communications drivers.  
The current COM port configuration can be reset to its default state at any time by sending it two hardware  
break signals of 250 milliseconds each, spaced by fifteen hundred milliseconds (1.5 seconds) with a pause of  
at least 250 milliseconds following the second break. This will:  
Stop the logging of data on the current port (see UNLOGALL command in the OEMStar Firmware  
Clear the transmit and receive buffers on the current port.  
Return the current port to its default settings (see Factory Defaults section in the OEMStar Firmware  
Set the interface mode to NovAtel for both input and output (see INTERFACEMODE command in the  
Baud rates higher than 115,200 bps are not supported by standard computer hardware. Special  
hardware may be required for higher rates, including 230400 bps, 460800 bps and 921600 bps.  
Also, some computers have trouble with baud rates beyond 57600 bps.  
Message ID:  
4
Abbreviated ASCII Syntax:  
COM [port] bps [parity[databits[stopbits[handshake[echo[break]]]]]]  
Factory Default:  
COM COM1 9600 N 8 1 N OFF ON  
COM COM2 9600 N 8 1 N OFF ON  
On AG-STAR receivers with Bluetooth wireless technology, the default settings for COM2 are:  
com2 115200 n 8 1 cts off off  
Changing the COM2 serial port settings could interfere with the ability to communicate using  
Bluetooth wireless technology.  
ASCII Example:  
COM COM1,57600,N,8,1,N,OFF,ON  
Use the COM command before using the INTERFACEMODE command on each port.  
Watch for situations where the COM ports of two receivers are connected together and the  
baud rates do not match. Data transmitted through a port operating at a slower baud rate may  
be misinterpreted as break signals by the receiving port if it is operating at a higher baud rate.  
This is because data transmitted at the lower baud rate is stretched relative to the higher baud  
rate. In this case, configure the receiving port to have break detection disabled using the COM  
command.  
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Binary  
Value  
Binary Binary Binary  
Format Bytes Offset  
Field Field Type ASCII Value  
Description  
1
COM  
header  
-
-
This field contains the command  
name or the message header  
-
H
0
depending on whether the command  
is abbreviated ASCII, ASCII or binary.  
2
port  
1
2
6
8
COM1  
COM2  
Select COM port 1 to configure  
Select COM port 2 to configure  
Enum  
4
H
THISPORT Select the current COM port (default)  
ALL Select all COM ports  
3
4
bps/baud  
parity  
300, 600, 900, 1200, 2400, Communication baud rate (bps).  
4800, 9600, 19200, 38400,  
57600, 115200, or 230400  
ULong  
Enum  
4
4
H+4  
H+8  
0
N
E
No parity (default)  
Even parity  
1
2
O
Odd parity  
5
6
7
databits  
7 or 8  
Number of data bits  
(default = 8)  
ULong  
ULong  
Enum  
4
4
4
H+12  
H+16  
H+20  
stopbits  
1 or 2  
Number of stop bits  
(default = 1)  
handshake  
0
1
2
N
No handshaking (default)  
XON  
CTS  
XON/XOFF software handshaking  
a
CTS/RTS hardware handshaking  
8
9
echo  
OFF  
ON  
0
1
No echo (default)  
Enum  
Enum  
4
4
H+24  
H+28  
Transmit any input characters as they  
are received  
break  
OFF  
ON  
0
1
Disable break detection  
Enable break detection (default)  
a. Although the standard command for the receiver card within the AG-STAR accepts the CTS option for hardware  
handshaking, the physical lines for hardware flow control are not available on the AG-STAR connector.  
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B.3 FRESET Clear Selected Data from NVM and Reset  
The OEMStar freset command is extended to include AG-STAR features. An additional target field, userdata  
(value = 10), resets only the AG-STAR user data NVM, thereby resetting all parameters indicated in this  
document as “Stored in NVM” to factory defaults. Issuing the freset command with the “target” field set to  
standard, resets the userdata NVM as well as OEMStar parameters as indicated in the OEMStar Firmware  
If you issue the FRESET command without any parameters, it is the same as issuing a  
FRESET STANDARD command.  
Field  
Type  
ASCII  
Value  
Binary  
Value  
Binary Binary Binary  
Field  
Description  
Format Bytes  
Offset  
1
FRESET  
header  
-
-
This field contains the command name -  
or the message header depending on  
whether the command is abbreviated  
ASCII, ASCII or binary.  
H
0
2
target  
See Table 11, FRESET Data to be reset by the receiver  
Enum  
4
H
Table 11: FRESET Target  
Binary  
ASCII  
Description  
0
1
STANDARD  
Resets commands, ephemeris, and almanac (default).  
Resets the stored commands (saved configuration)  
Resets the stored GPS almanac  
COMMAND  
2
GPSALMANAC  
GPSEPHEM  
3
Resets the stored GPS ephemeris  
4
GLOEPHEM  
Resets the stored GLONASS ephemeris  
Resets the currently selected model  
5
MODEL  
10  
11  
20  
21  
31  
USERDATA  
Reset AG-STAR only commands  
CLKCALIBRATION  
SBASALMANAC  
LAST_POSITION  
GLOALMANAC  
Resets the parameters entered using the CLOCKCALIBRATE command  
Resets the stored SBAS almanac  
Resets the position using the last stored position  
Resets the stored GLONASS almanac  
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B.4 LOG Request Logs from the Receiver  
Many different types of data can be logged using several different methods of triggering the log events. Every  
log element can be directed to any combination of the two COM ports. The ONTIME trigger option requires  
the addition of the period parameter. See the OEMStar Firmware Reference Manual for further information  
and a complete list of data log structures. The LOG command tables in this section show the ASCII command  
format.  
The optional parameter [hold] prevents a log from being removed when the UNLOGALL command, with its  
defaults, is issued. To remove a log that was invoked using the [hold] parameter requires the specific use of  
the UNLOG command. To remove all logs that have the [hold] parameter, use the UNLOGALL command with  
the held field set to 1.  
The [port] parameter is optional. If [port] is not specified, [port] is defaulted to the port that the command was  
received on.  
1. The OEMStar family of receivers can handle 30 logs at a time. If you attempt to log more  
than 30 logs at a time, the receiver responds with an Insufficient Resources error.  
2. Maximum flexibility for logging data is provided to the user by these logs. The user is  
cautioned, however, to recognize that each log requested requires additional CPU time and  
memory buffer space. Too many logs may result in lost data and degraded CPU  
performance. Receiver overload can be monitored using the idle-time field and buffer  
overload bits of the Receiver Status in any log header.  
3. Polled log types do not allow fractional offsets or ONTIME rates faster than 1Hz.  
4. Use the ONNEW trigger with the MARKTIME or MARKPOS logs.  
5. Only the MARKPOS or MARKTIME logs, and ‘polled’ log types are generated ‘on the fly’ at  
the exact time of the mark. Synchronous and asynchronous logs output the most recently  
available data.  
6. If you do use the ONTIME trigger with asynchronous logs, the time stamp in the log does  
not necessarily represent the time the data was generated, but rather the time when the log  
is being transmitted.  
Message ID:  
1
Abbreviated ASCII Syntax:  
LOG [port] message [trigger [period [offset [hold]]]]  
Factory Default:  
LOG COM1 RXSTATUSEVENTA ONNEW 0 0 HOLD  
LOG COM2 RXSTATUSEVENTA ONNEW 0 0 HOLD  
Abbreviated ASCII Example 1:  
LOG COM1 BESTPOS ONTIME 7 0.5 HOLD  
The above example shows BESTPOS logging to COM port 1 at 7 second intervals and offset by 0.5 seconds  
(output at 0.5, 7.5, 14.5 seconds and so on). The [hold] parameter is set so that logging is not disrupted by  
the UNLOGALL command.  
To send a log only one time, the trigger option can be ignored.  
Abbreviated ASCII Example 2:  
LOG COM1 BESTPOS ONCE 0.000000 0.000000 NOHOLD  
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Refer to the Command Formats section of the OEMStar Firmware Reference Manual for additional  
examples.  
1. In NovAtel Connect there are two ways to initiate data logging to the receiver's serial ports.  
You can either enter the LOG command in the Console window, or use the interface pro-  
vided in the Logging Control window. Ensure the Power Settings on your computer are not  
set to go into Hibernate or Standby modes. Data is lost if one of these modes occurs during  
a logging session.  
2. Only the ASCII/Abbreviated ASCII log table is included in this manual. Refer to the LOG  
command in the OEMStar Firmware Reference Manual for binary log details.  
Field  
Name  
Field  
Type  
Field  
ASCII Value  
Description  
1
LOG  
(ASCII)  
header  
-
This field contains the command name or the  
message header depending on whether the  
command is abbreviated ASCII or ASCII  
respectively.  
-
2
3
4
port  
Output port  
(default = THISPORT)  
Enum  
Char [ ]  
Enum  
message Any valid message name, with Message name of log to output  
an optional A or B suffix.  
trigger  
ONNEW  
Output when the message is updated (not  
necessarily changed)  
ONCHANGED  
ONTIME  
Output when the message is changed  
Output on a time interval  
ONNEXT  
ONCE  
Output only the next message  
Output only the current message. (default)  
ONMARK  
Output when a pulse is detected on the mark 1  
input, MK1I  
5
6
period  
offset  
Any positive double value larger Log period (for ONTIME trigger) in seconds  
than the receiver’s minimum raw (default = 0)  
measurement period  
Double  
Any positive double value  
smaller than the period.  
Offset for period (ONTIME trigger) in seconds. If Double  
you wished to log data at 1 second after every  
minute you would set the period to 60 and the  
offset to 1 (default = 0)  
7
hold  
NOHOLD  
HOLD  
Allow log to be removed by the UNLOGALL  
command (default)  
Enum  
Prevent log from being removed by the  
UNLOGALL command  
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Table 12: Detailed Serial Port Identifiers  
ASCII Port  
Name  
Hex Port  
Value  
Decimal Port  
Value  
Description  
No ports specified  
NO_PORTS  
COM1  
0
1
2
6
8
0
1
2
6
8
COM port 1  
COM2  
COM port 2  
THISPORT  
ALL  
The current COM port  
All COM ports  
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B.5 RADARCFG Configure the ER Output  
Use this command to configure the Emulated Radar (ER) output. ER is available through the AG-STAR  
pin-out details.  
Message ID: 8192  
Syntax  
radarcfg switch freq_step update_rate resp_mode threshold  
Field  
Data  
Header  
Description  
Bytes Format Units Offset  
1
This field contains the command name or the  
message header depending on whether the  
command is abbreviated ASCII, ASCII or binary.  
-
-
0
2
switch  
Enable or disable radar emulation  
4
Enum  
none  
H
0 = ENABLE  
1 = DISABLE  
(default = enable)  
3
4
freq_step  
Frequency step per kilometer per hour.  
Range: 26.11, 28.12 or 36.11  
(default = 26.11)  
8
4
Double  
Integer  
Hz/kph  
Hz  
H+4  
update_rate Specify how often to update radar output  
Range: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20  
H+12  
a
(default = 10)  
5
6
resp_mode Specify the time, response mode, over which to  
average velocity samples, see Table 13, Response  
4
8
Integer  
Double  
none  
kph  
H+16  
H+20  
a
(Default = 500)  
threshold  
The threshold is only applicable when the response  
mode is set to 2. The response time is 1000 ms  
when the velocity is greater than this value,  
otherwise, it is 500 ms.  
Range: 2-50 kph  
(default = 5 kph)  
a. The number of samples used for smoothing depends on both the update_rate and resp_mode parameters. For  
instance, if the update_rate is 5 Hz and the resp_mode is 2000ms, the number of samples used will be 10.  
Table 13: Response Modes  
Mode  
Description  
2000  
1000  
500  
2
2000 ms  
The time period over which to  
smooth velocity samples  
1000 ms  
500 ms (default)  
Automatically switches between 1000 and 500 ms  
Performs no smoothing  
1
Example 1 to disable radar emulation:  
radarcfg disable 26.11 1 1 2  
radarcfg enable 36.11 1 1 2  
Example 2 to set the frequency step to 36.11 Hz/kph,  
update rate to 1 Hz and no smoothing:  
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B.6 SELECTCHANCONFIG Set channel configuration  
The SELECTCHANCONFIG command should only be used by advanced users.  
This command changes the channel configuration used on the AG-STAR receiver. It causes an immediate  
software reset. See Table 14, AG-STAR Channel Configuration Sets on page 58 for a list of available channel  
configurations.  
Configurations containing GLONASS channels are only available when the AG-STAR has the  
GLONASS option.  
Message ID: 1149  
Abbreviated ASCII Syntax:  
SELECTCHANCONFIG [set]  
Factory Default (without GLONASS option):  
selectchanconfig 2  
Factory Default (with GLONASS option):  
selectchanconfig 3  
Abbreviated ASCII Example:  
selectchanconfig 2  
ASCII  
Value  
Binary  
Value  
Binary Binary Binary  
Format Bytes Offset  
Field  
Field Type  
Description  
1
SELECTCHANCONFIG -  
header  
-
This field contains the  
command name or the  
message header depending  
on whether the command is  
abbreviated ASCII, ASCII or  
binary.  
-
H
0
2
target  
See Table 14, AG-STAR Channel configuration set  
Ulong  
4
H
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Table 14: AG-STAR Channel Configuration Sets  
Binary  
ASCII  
Description  
14 GPS L1 channels  
1
2
1
2
12 GPS L1 channels  
2 SBAS L1 channels  
3
4
5
3
4
5
10 GPS L1 channels  
4 GLONASS L1 channels  
8 GPS L1 channels  
6 GLONASS L1 channels  
8 GPS L1 channels  
4 GLONASS L1 channels  
2 SBAS L1 channels  
6
6
10 GPS L1 channels  
2 GLONASS L1 channels  
2 SBAS L1 channels  
7
8
7
8
7 GPS L1 channels  
7 GLONASS L1 channels  
14 GLONASS L1 channels  
7 GPS L1 + 7 GLONASS L1 channel configuration is recommended for timing-only applications.  
Table 15: OEMStar Channel Configurations  
Configurations  
Set  
Description  
GPS  
1
2
0 to 13 for GPS L1 channels  
GPS/SBAS  
0 to 11 for GPS L1 channels  
12 to 13 for SBAS L1 channels  
GPS/GLONASS  
GPS/GLONASS  
GPS/GLONASS/SBAS  
3
4
5
0 to 9 for GPS L1 channels  
10 to 13 for GLONASS L1 channels  
0 to 7 for GPS L1 channels  
8 to 13 for GLONASS L1 channels  
0 to 7 for GPS L1 channels  
8 to 11 for GLONASS L1 channels  
12 to 13 for SBAS L1 channels  
GPS/GLONASS/SBAS  
6
0 to 9 for GPS L1 channels  
10 to 11 for GLONASS L1 channels  
12 to 13 for SBAS L1 channels  
GPS/GLONASS  
GLONASS  
7
8
0 to 6 for GPS L1 channels  
7 to 13 for GLONASS L1 channels  
0 to 13 GLONASS L1 channels  
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B.7 SETCANNAME Sets the CAN name fields  
This commands sets the CAN device name fields.  
Message ID: 1091  
Abbreviated ASCII Syntax:  
SETCANNAME ManufacturerCode [IndustryGroup] [DeviceClass]  
[DeviceClassInstance] [Function][FunctionInstance] [ECUInstance]  
[PreferredAddress]  
ASCII Example:  
SETCANNAME 305  
ASCII Binary  
Value Value  
Binary Binary Binary  
Format Bytes Offset  
Field  
Field Type  
Description  
1
SETCANNAME header -  
-
This field contains the command  
name or the message header  
depending on whether the  
command is abbreviated ASCII,  
ASCII or binary.  
-
H
0
2
3
ManufacturerCode  
IndustryGroup  
CAN module's Manufacturer Code ULong  
4
4
H
Industry group number  
(default = 2)  
ULong  
H+4  
4
5
DeviceClass  
11783-5 Device class (default = 0) ULong  
4
4
H+8  
DeviceClassInstance  
11783-5 Device class instance  
(default = 0)  
ULong  
H+12  
6
7
Function  
11783-5 Function (default = 23)  
ULong  
ULong  
4
4
H+16  
H+20  
FunctionInstance  
11783-5 Function instance  
(default = 0)  
8
9
ECUInstance  
11783-5 ECU Instance  
(default = 0)  
ULong  
4
4
4
H+24  
H+28  
H+32  
PreferredAddress  
Device default address on start up ULong  
(default=28)  
10 Reserved  
ULong  
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Appendix C  
Logs  
C.1 Position Logs  
C.1.1 NMEA Logs  
The NMEA logs (receiver outputs) supported by the AG-STAR are summarized in the OEMStar Firmware  
Reference Manual. The available logs include:  
GPGGA, which outputs a log of position system fix data and undulation. There are variants of  
GPGGA, specifically:  
-
GPGGALONG, which has both greater precision and the undulation field  
GPVTG, which outputs track made good and ground speed  
The steps for configuring the receiver output, through the command line are:  
1. Configure the communication port using the COM command, described in Section B.2, COM Configure  
COM Port on page 50. To set COM port 2 as follows:  
Bit Rate  
Parity  
9600  
none  
8
Data Bits  
Stop Bits  
Handshaking  
Echo  
1
None  
Off  
Break  
On  
enter the following string:  
com com2 9600 n 8 1 n off on  
2. Select and configure the NMEA string that you want to output. For example, to log gpgga (position  
system fix data and undulation) at 2 Hz, enter the following string:  
log gpgga ontime 0.5  
You can configure the log to output at various frequencies, as described in Section B.4, LOG Request Logs  
The above command line operations can also be carried out through NovAtel Connect. Information about  
configuring the communication port can be found in the NovAtel Connect online help. The procedure for  
adding a NMEA log through NovAtel Connect is summarized as follows:  
1. In the Logging control window, click Logging to one or more of the receiver's serial ports. The Add Log  
window displays.  
2. Beside Select list, select Complete List or NMEA List.  
3. Beside Log to file, select the NMEA log you want to add.  
4. Select the port.  
5. Configure the remaining fields then click Add.  
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C.1.2 NovAtel Position Logs  
In addition to NMEA logs, NovAtel supports a range of non-NMEA position logs, described in the OEMStar  
BESTPOS: This log contains the best available position computed by the receiver, for example:  
log bestposa ontime 0.5  
BESTXYZ: This log contains the receiver’s best available position and velocity in ECEF coordinates,  
for example:  
log bestxyza ontime 1  
C.2 Other Logs  
The AG-STAR firmware generates the logs in Table 16, AG-STAR Logs in Alphabetical Order, in addition to  
those of the OEMStar family log set. Refer to the OEMStar Firmware Reference Manual, which also contains  
procedures and explanations related to data logging.  
Table 16: AG-STAR Logs in Alphabetical Order  
Message ID  
ASCII Log  
Description  
8193  
RADARSIGNAL  
Radar signal and position information  
(AG-STAR log)  
37  
VERSION  
Hardware versions, software versions, and serial numbers  
(Existing OEMStar log extended to AG-STAR)  
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C.2.1 RADARSIGNAL ER Signal and Position Information  
This log contains position and Emulated Radar (ER) signal information.  
Message ID: 8193  
Log Type:  
Asynch  
Recommended Input:  
log radarsignala onchanged  
ASCII Example 1 (stationary AG-STAR):  
#RADARSIGNALA,COM1,0,61.5,FINESTEERING,1501,248381.628,00000000,8a1c,3723;  
SOL_COMPUTED,WAAS,0.0139,0.00,0.00*f0d580ca  
ASCII Example 2 (moving AG-STAR):  
#RADARSIGNALA,COM1,0,45.0,FINESTEERING,1755,1475.442,00000000,f81d,12614;  
SOL_COMPUTED,WAAS,2.8010,4214.075011,263.379688*cca8853d  
Binary Binary  
Bytes Offset  
Field #  
Field type  
Data Description  
Format  
1
RADARSIGNAL Log header  
header  
H
0
2
3
sol status  
vel type  
Solution status, see Table 18, Solution Status on page 63 Enum  
4
4
H
Enum  
H+4  
4
4
5
speed  
Speed over ground (m/s)  
Double  
Double  
Double  
8
8
8
H+8  
H+16  
H+24  
varf freq  
radar freq  
External VARF output frequency (Hz)  
Radar signal frequency (Hz) as output by the Emulated  
Radar Out signal.  
6
7
xxxx  
32-bit CRC (ASCII and Binary only)  
Sentence terminator (ASCII only)  
Hex  
-
4
-
H+32  
-
[CR][LF]  
Table 17: Position or Velocity Type  
Type (binary)  
Type (ASCII)  
NONE  
Description  
0
1
No solution  
Position has been fixed by the FIX POSITION command  
a
FIXEDPOS  
FIXEDHEIGHT  
a
2
Position has been fixed by the FIX HEIGHT/AUTO command  
8
DOPPLER_VELOCITY  
SINGLE  
Velocity computed using instantaneous Doppler  
Single point position  
16  
17  
18  
19  
PSRDIFF  
Pseudorange differential solution  
WAAS  
Solution calculated using corrections from an SBAS  
Propagated by a Kalman filter without new observations  
PROPAGATED  
a. With default PDPFILTER ENABLE, the bestpos will no longer show that the position has been fixed, unless  
PDPFILTER is DISABLED.  
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Table 18: Solution Status  
Solution Status  
ASCII  
Description  
Binary  
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
SOL_COMPUTED  
INSUFFICIENT_OBS  
NO_CONVERGENCE  
SINGULARITY  
COV_TRACE  
Solution computed  
Insufficient observations  
No convergence  
Singularity at parameters matrix  
Covariance trace exceeds maximum (trace > 1000 m)  
Test distance exceeded (maximum of 3 rejections if distance > 10 km)  
Not yet converged from cold start  
TEST_DIST  
COLD_START  
V_H_LIMIT  
Height or velocity limits exceeded (in accordance with export  
licensing restrictions)  
8
9
VARIANCE  
Variance exceeds limits  
Residuals are too large  
Delta position is too large  
Negative variance  
RESIDUALS  
DELTA_POS  
NEGATIVE_VAR  
Reserved  
10  
11  
12  
13  
INTEGRITY_WARNING Large residuals make position unreliable  
Reserved for SPAN-capable receivers  
14-17  
18  
PENDING  
When a FIX POSITION command is entered, the receiver computes  
a
its own position and determines if the fixed position is valid  
19  
20  
INVALID_FIX  
The fixed position, entered using the FIX POSITION command, is not  
valid  
UNAUTHORIZED  
Position type is unauthorized - HP or XP on a receiver not authorized  
for it  
a. PENDING implies there are not enough satellites being tracked to verify if the FIX POSITION entered into the  
receiver is valid. The receiver needs to be tracking two or more GNSS satellites to perform this check. Under  
normal conditions PENDING should appear for a few seconds on power up before the GNSS receiver has locked  
onto its first few satellites. If your antenna is obstructed and you have entered a FIX POSITION command, then  
you may see PENDING indefinitely.  
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C.2.2 VERSION Hardware and Software Versions and Serial Numbers  
The Component Type of the VERSION log, refer to the OEMStar Firmware Reference Manual, is extended to  
include AG-STAR information as in Table 19, Component Type.  
Table 19: Component Type  
a
Binary Value  
ASCII Value  
UNKNOWN  
Description  
Unknown Component  
0
1
3
8
GPSCARD  
OEMStar GPSCard Component  
AG-STAR Receiver  
ENCLOSURE  
USERINFO  
User-application information component  
Auto-starting user-application firmware  
981073925  
DB_USERAPPAUTO  
(0x3A7A0005)  
a. Unused numbers are reserved for future use.  
For the AG-STAR, the BT MAC address field has been added, in hexadecimal format, to the USERINFO  
block.  
<VERSION COM1 0 85.0 UNKNOWN 0 11.971 004c0000 3681 12362  
<
<
4
GPSCARD "LXGMTSA" "DHD13302094" "M6XV1G-2.02-TT" "L6X010106RN0000"  
"L6X010100RB0000" "2013/Aug/14" "11:10:30"  
<
DB_USERAPPAUTO "SmartApp" "0x0" "" "EAGST0200RN0000" ""  
"2013/Sep/11" "14:28:32"  
<
<
ENCLOSURE "AgStarBT" "NMEE13330008L" "0" "0" "0" "0" "0"  
USERINFO "LMX9830" "0212" "AGSTAR" "" "" "" ""  
In the above example, the firmware is shown as L6X010106RN0000and the AG-STAR application is shown  
as EAGST0200RN0000.  
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Appendix D  
Replacement Parts  
The following are lists of the replacement parts available for your NovAtel AG-STAR receiver. Should you  
require assistance, or need to order additional components, contact your local NovAtel dealer or Customer  
Service representative.  
D.1 AG-STAR  
Table 20: AG-STAR Product  
Part Description  
NovAtel Part  
AG-STAR  
01019131  
01019129  
01018256  
AG-STAR with Bluetooth  
Cable: 14-pin socket to 2 DB-9 connectors, twisted CAN I/O pair, and other bare wire  
Mounting Plate  
Pole Mount Kit  
01018317  
01019142  
D.2 User Manuals  
Table 21: Reference User Manuals  
Part Description  
NovAtel Part  
OEMStar Installation and Operation User Manual  
OEMStar Firmware Reference Manual  
OM-20000126  
OM-20000127  
The accessories above are also available from www.novatel.com  
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OM-20000149  
Rev 2  
December 2013  
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